Introduction

Facilities Management (FM) is a vital function that supports organizations by ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and sustainability of buildings and infrastructure. It encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, including maintenance, operations, compliance, safety, and resource optimization.

This 5-day foundational course provides participants with a thorough understanding of the principles, practices, and tools required for effective facilities management. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, the course equips participants with the skills needed to embark on a successful career in FM or enhance their current capabilities in the field.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will:

1. Understand the core principles and responsibilities of facilities management.
2. Learn how to manage maintenance, operations, and resources effectively.
3. Develop an understanding of compliance, safety, and sustainability in FM.
4. Gain practical skills in communication, planning, and problem-solving for FM operations.
5. Explore the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of FM.
6. Build a foundational knowledge base to pursue advanced FM training and certifications.

Target Audience

This course is ideal for:

• Aspiring Facilities Managers
• Entry-Level Facilities Professionals
• Operations and Maintenance Staff
• Real Estate and Property Managers
• Administrative Staff Supporting FM Operations
• Students and Graduates Exploring Careers in FM
• Anyone new to facilities management or seeking foundational knowledge

Course Outline

Day 1: Foundations of Facilities Management

Session 1: Introduction to Facilities Management

• Definition, Scope, and Importance of FM
• Core Functions of a Facilities Manager
• The Role of FM in Supporting Organizational Goals

Session 2: Key Components of Facilities Management

• Maintenance Management: Preventive, Predictive, and Reactive Maintenance
• Space and Occupancy Management: Principles and Practices
• Resource Optimization and Cost Efficiency in FM

Session 3: Facilities Management Across Industries

• FM in Commercial, Industrial, and Residential Settings
• Understanding Sector-Specific FM Needs and Approaches
• Case Studies: FM Success Stories in Different Sectors

Activity: Group Exercise – Identifying FM Requirements for Various Facility Types

Day 2: Operations and Maintenance in FM

Session 1: Maintenance Planning and Execution

• Types of Maintenance: Reactive, Preventive, and Predictive
• Developing Maintenance Schedules and Workflows
• Coordinating Maintenance Teams and Vendors

Session 2: Daily Operations in Facilities Management

• Managing Day-to-Day Operations and Activities
• Work Order Management and Task Prioritization
• Tools and Techniques for Monitoring FM Operations

Session 3: Managing Vendors and Service Providers

• Selecting and Contracting Vendors for FM Services
• Building and Maintaining Strong Vendor Relationships
• Measuring Vendor Performance Against SLAs

Activity: Workshop – Designing a Basic Maintenance Plan for a Facility

Day 3: Compliance, Safety, and Sustainability

Session 1: Compliance in FM

• Understanding Legal and Regulatory Requirements
• Ensuring Compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental Standards
• Preparing for Inspections and Audits

Session 2: Workplace Safety and Emergency Preparedness

• Developing and Implementing Safety Policies
• Conducting Risk Assessments and Safety Inspections
• Creating Emergency Response and Evacuation Plans

Session 3: Sustainability in Facilities Management

• Introduction to Sustainable FM Practices
• Energy Efficiency, Waste Management, and Water Conservation
• Achieving Green Building Certifications (LEED, BREEAM, etc.)

Activity: Case Study – Identifying Compliance and Sustainability Opportunities

Day 4: Communication, Planning, and Problem-Solving

Session 1: Communication Skills for FM Professionals

• Effective Communication with Teams, Stakeholders, and Vendors
• Handling Difficult Conversations and Resolving Conflicts
• Presenting Ideas and Reports to Management

Session 2: Planning and Scheduling in FM

• Developing Short-Term and Long-Term Plans
• Using Tools for Scheduling FM Tasks and Activities
• Allocating Resources for Optimal Efficiency

Session 3: Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

• Identifying Common Challenges in FM Operations
• Applying Problem-Solving Frameworks to FM Scenarios
• Using Data and Metrics to Make Informed Decisions

Activity: Role-Playing Exercise – Resolving an FM Operational Challenge

Day 5: Trends, Technology, and Career Development

Session 1: Trends Shaping Facilities Management

• Emerging Trends in FM: Sustainability, Hybrid Workspaces, and Smart Buildings
• The Growing Importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) in FM
• Adapting to Changing Workplace and Market Demands

Session 2: Technology in Facilities Management

• Overview of FM Technologies: IoT, CMMS, and Building Automation Systems
• Using Data Analytics to Improve Decision-Making in FM
• Exploring Future Innovations: Digital Twins, Robotics, and AI

Session 3: Career Pathways in Facilities Management

• Certifications and Professional Development Opportunities (e.g., IFMA, BIFM, etc.)
• Building a Career in FM: Networking, Skill Development, and Leadership Growth
• Creating a Personal Roadmap for Success in FM

Activity: Group Discussion – Exploring Career Opportunities and Trends in FM

Course Delivery Methods

• Interactive Lectures: Delivered by experienced FM professionals with real-world insights.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples to demonstrate FM concepts in action.
• Practical Workshops: Hands-on exercises to apply FM principles and practices.
• Group Discussions: Collaborative activities to enhance peer learning.
• Q&A Sessions: Opportunities to clarify doubts and gain expert advice.

Key Takeaways

• A comprehensive understanding of facilities management principles and practices.
• Practical knowledge of maintenance, operations, compliance, and sustainability.
• Essential skills for communication, planning, and problem-solving in FM.
• Insights into emerging trends and technologies shaping the future of FM.
• A roadmap for pursuing advanced FM training and career development.